William “Trader Bill” Benefiel

WILLIAM “TRADER BILL” BENEFIEL, JR., 72, of Chester, Illinois, passed away at 1:08pm, Sunday, February 8, 2026 at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, St. Louis, Missouri.

He was born to the late William and Wilma (nee McCurdy) Benefiel on March 20, 1953 in Anderson, Indiana.

Bill was a construction worker, mechanic and owned Trader Bill’s in Chester, Illinois.

He was a member of the Eagles Club Aerie #3252 in Chester. Bill enjoyed attending auctions, rebuilding vintage cars, camping and NASCAR. He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and helping people whenever he could.

He was a United States Army National Guard Veteran.

Survivors:

   7 Children:

        Dawn Houk Ellis Grove, IL

        Michael (Angela) Benefiel Anderson, IN

        Brandy Lynn Houk Willisville, IL

        Carrie Ann Houk Chester, IL

        Bryan Houk Chester, IL

        Dustin (Christina) Houk Chester, IL

        Cory Houk Chester, IL

   19 Grandchildren

   23 Great Grandchildren

   Many “Adopted” Children and Grandchildren

Preceded in Death by:Parents, Wife – Vivian L. Houk, 2 Children – William B. Benefiel III and Kelly Michelle Benefiel and 1 Sister – Marsha K. Benefiel

Funeral Service:

   11:00 am, Monday, February 16, 2026

   Pechacek Funeral Homes, Chester, Illinois

Officiating:

   Pastor Tony Glaser

Interment:

   Evergreen Cemetery

   Chester, Illinois

Visitation:

   Monday – 9:00 am – 11:00 am

   Pechacek Funeral Homes, Chester, Illinois

Memorials:

   Family Choice